The first rays of dawn slipped through the tall windows of Wraith Manor, casting ethereal patterns across the polished wooden floors. Serene Calista stood before her mirror, fingers brushing over the intricate silver locket that lay against her collarbone—a gift from her mother, a reminder of the legacy she was meant to uphold. But today, the locket felt heavy, as if it were an anchor pulling her deeper into the waters of expectation she longed to escape.

She wore a gown of deep emerald silk, tailored to perfection, the fabric pooling elegantly at her feet. Today was not just another day of idle parties and idle chatter; it marked her engagement announcement to Lord Cedric, a man whose ambition mirrored her father's. The news had rippled through the aristocracy, eliciting congratulations and envy, much like waves disturbing a still pond.

But as she braided her hair, Serene's heartfelt anything but still. Cedric was a fine young man—charismatic, intelligent, and he possessed a charm popular among the elite. Yet, each pleasantry exchanged felt like a concession, a trade-off for her freedom. With every passing moment, the thought of her life tightening into a predetermined shape filled her with dread.

As she descended the grand staircase, the clatter of her heels echoed through the cavernous halls, a rhythmic reminder of the life she was expected to embrace. The scent of fresh flowers and polished marble filled her senses, but Serene's mind wandered elsewhere.